Top 12+ Spray Can Tips for Perfect Spray Paint
Spray Can Tips: Apply Coats in Different Directions
To achieve the most even coverage as you learn how to spray paint, it's a good idea to put on subsequent coats in different directions. Changing directions will help you get into all those nooks and crannies and reduce the chance of zebra stripes.
Spray Can Tips: Always Clean Out the Nozzle
Even though nozzle-cleaning directions are on every single can of spray paint, it's an easy step to skip. After use, hold the can upside down and press the nozzle until no more pigment shows in the spray, and then wipe the tip with a rag or paper towel. If you skip this step, you could end up with a nozzle completely clogged with dried paint or a partial clog that'll affect the spray pattern next time.
Spray Can Tips: Swap Plugged Nozzles
Most nozzles have a universal fit. If you end up with a plugged nozzle and have other cans of spray paint with good nozzles, just swap the bad one for the new one. They lift right off and push on. If you don't have any good nozzles, remove the plugged one and soak it in nail polish remover, acetone or even mineral spirits.
Spray Can Tips: Start With a Tack Coat
If you're spraying a vertical surface, it's always smart to apply a "tack" coat before applying the first full coat. A tack coat is a light mist that you allow to set for five minutes. The texture of the tack coat will help hold the paint in place and reduce runs.
Need a Custom-Color Spray Paint?
If you want to paint radiators, electrical cover plates, a shelf or anything else to match your wall or trim color, go online and search for "custom spray paint." You'll find many companies (myperfectcolor.com is one) that can custom-mix just about any color you want, provided you know the paint manufacturer and color name. If you want a different shade of an existing color, choose one of the other shades from the paint swatch you got at the home center or paint store and have that color custom-mixed.
